Big Bad Moon

Joe Satriani's song 'Big Bad Moon' is a captivating exploration of the moon's mysterious and almost supernatural influence on human emotions and behavior. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the night sky dominated by a 'big bad moon,' which seems to exert a powerful, almost hypnotic pull on the narrator. This celestial body is not just a passive object in the sky; it actively affects the narrator, making him feel like he's 'going to blow a fuse' and causing him to 'shiver and shake with a strange kind of blues.' The moon's presence is both unsettling and exhilarating, a duality that Satriani captures perfectly with the repeated line, 'But I like it.'

The moon in this song serves as a metaphor for the uncontrollable and often irrational forces that govern human emotions. It 'turns the tide' and 'makes you feel like you were born wild,' suggesting that its influence is both natural and primal. The moon's 'big, round, black and white' appearance is described in a way that emphasizes its stark, almost otherworldly beauty. This imagery evokes a sense of awe and wonder, but also a hint of danger, as if the moon's pull could lead one to lose control. The repeated references to the moon 'looking down' on the narrator add a layer of personification, making it seem as though the moon is a sentient being with its own intentions.

Satriani's musical style, known for its instrumental virtuosity and emotional depth, complements the lyrical content perfectly. The song's bluesy, rock-infused sound mirrors the 'strange kind of blues' the narrator feels, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for the listener. The moon's influence is universal, affecting 'man, woman, boy, child,' which underscores the idea that these powerful emotions are a shared human experience. The song ultimately celebrates this enigmatic force, embracing the wild, untamed feelings it brings to the surface. 'Big Bad Moon' is a testament to the moon's enduring fascination and its ability to stir the deepest parts of the human soul.